20 districts in Assam face drought-like situation

The state government sanctions aid to the farmers of 20 draught hit districts of Assam.

With as many as 20 districts of Assam facing a "drought-like situation," the state government has sanctioned Rs 1.48 crore as aid to farmers.

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According to an official note, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has discussed with various departments the steps to address the plight of the farmers.

The revenue department has sanctioned Rs 1.48 crore to the deputy commissioners of the 20 affected districts for procurement of power tillers where pumps are available for irrigating fields.

The note said due to deficit rainfall, more than 32 per cent of the state experienced a "drought-like situation" since July severely affecting crop production.

According to the agriculture department, so far 4.95 lakh hectares of Sali plantation and eight lakh farm families have been affected. The government is mulling a food for work programme in the affected districts.